Types of Synovial Joints and Their Functions

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to synovial joints, including definitions, functions, and specific examples, to assist students in understanding joint types, movements, and anatomical structures.

Pivot Joint

A joint that allows for rotation around a single axis, exemplified by the joint between the first and second cervical vertebrae (C1 and C2).

Hinge Joint

A joint that permits bending and straightening movements, such as the elbow and knee.

Condyloid Joint

A joint with a shallow depression that allows for bending/straightening and lateral movements, like the knuckles and wrist (radiocarpal joint).

Saddle Joint

A joint that resembles a saddle and allows for opposition, such as the first carpometacarpal joint.

Plane Joint

A joint where gliding movements occur across flat surfaces, like intercarpal and intertarsal joints.

Ball-and-Socket Joint

A joint that allows for the greatest range of motion in multiple directions, such as the shoulder and hip joints.

Nonaxial Movement

A type of motion where slipping movements occur without rotation.

Uniaxial Movement

A type of motion where movement is allowed in one plane only.

Biaxial Movement

A type of motion where movement is allowed in two planes.

Multiaxial Movement

A type of motion where movement occurs in or around all three planes.

Atlanto-occipital Joint

The joint between the atlas (C1) and the occipital bone that allows for nodding of the head.

Atlantoaxial Joint

The joint between the axis (C2) and atlas (C1) that allows for rotation of the head.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

A joint that connects the jaw to the skull, commonly associated with TMJ syndrome.

Glenohumeral Joint

The shoulder joint between the head of the humerus and the glenoid cavity of the scapula.

Humeroulnar Joint

The joint formed between the humerus and the ulna at the elbow.

Humeroradial Joint

The joint formed between the humerus and radius, also at the elbow.

Proximal Radioulnar Joint

The joint between the radius and ulna near the elbow, allowing for forearm rotation.

Acetabulum

The socket of the hip bone that receives the head of the femur.

Coxal Bone

Also known as the hip bone, it forms the pelvis by joining with other bones.

Patella

Also known as the kneecap, it is a sesamoid bone embedded in the tendon of the quadriceps muscle.

Synovial Membrane

The membrane lining the joint capsule that produces synovial fluid.

Articular Capsule

The fibrous structure surrounding a synovial joint, composed of an outer fibrous layer and an inner synovial membrane.

Ligament of the Head of the Femur

A ligament that connects the head of the femur to the acetabulum.

Menisci

Crescent-shaped cartilages in the knee that provide cushion and stability.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)

A key ligament in the knee that helps stabilize the joint.

Talocrural Joint

The ankle joint formed between the talus and the tibia/fibula.

Subtalar Joint

The joint between the talus and calcaneus in the foot.